Network Infrastructure Blog

Whether in a classroom, waiting room, or telecom room, there is always risk of someone accidentally or intentionally disconnecting network equipment and devices. Network outlets in unprotected spaces can also be a way for sophisticated criminals to gain access to a network for the purposes of carrying out a cyberattack or installing malware, viruses, or ransomware.

There are a variety of advanced security systems like video surveillance and access control that can help physically protect people and property or even automated infrastructure management (AIM) solutions that can detect and alert disconnect of ports in data centers and telecom rooms. But sometimes the simple, low-cost solution of a lock is the best remedy.

Originally Inspired by Gum-Chewing Teens

One easy-to-use solution for physically protecting connections is Siemon’s LockIT™ Secure Connectivity System. The system includes patch cords that can be freely inserted into patch panel and work area outlets but require a special LockIT Cord Key for removal. They system also includes secure outlet locks for preventing access to unused ports.

Ideal for preventing disconnection of networked devices or access to unused ports in public and shared spaces, as well as in mission-critical data centers and telecom spaces, the LockIT Secure Connectivity system is just one of Siemon’s several customer-first innovations. And like all of our innovations, it’s got its own story.

The LockIT Secure Connectivity system was originally developed in response to a high school IT customer that mentioned needing a way to keep students from inserting gum and other debris into open outlets. The idea was brought to the Siemon design engineering team who took it as a challenge and came up with the innovative LockIt system that today offers protection against far more than just chewing gum.

Ideal for a Wide Range of Applications and Spaces

LockIT patch cords are available in Category 6 and 6A unshielded and Category 6A shielded performance levels for preventing disconnect of a wide range of devices in a variety of environments. They are especially popular for use in public areas such as schools, retail stores, waiting areas, and hospitality venues to prevent disconnect of surveillance cameras, public terminals, self-service kiosks, vending machines, digital displays, and other publicly-accessible networked devices.

• Also ideal for preventing disconnects within mission-critical data centers and telecom rooms, LockIT path cords come in both 26 and 28 AWG construction, with the smaller-diameter 28 AWG cords perfectly suited for protecting connections while reducing congestion and improving airflow and flexibility in high-density patching areas. Plus, the LockIT Patch Cord Key is uniquely designed with an extended length to easily unlock cords in high-density environments.

Available for use in any standards-compliant RJ45 outlet or duplex LC fiber port, LockIT outlet locks are a simple way to prevent access to unused network ports in any space, from the data center to the daycare center. Whether to secure unused patch panel ports reserved for mission-critical or specialty applications and/or to simply protect outlets from the damaging impact of chewing gum, paper clips, or tiny fingers, low-profile LockIt outlet locks are easily inserted into unused ports and can removed with the LockIT outlet key.

When it comes to physically protecting assets, IT managers also need a straightforward way to recognize which connections are tamper-proof. That’s why Siemon’s LockIT Secure Connectivity System is highly visible with LockIt patch cords featuring a bright red locking tab and LockIT outlet locks brightly colored in yellow.

With more devices connected to the network than ever before, there’s more of a chance of a device being accidentally or intentionally disconnected. While intentional disconnects of devices like surveillance cameras can significantly impact safety and security, others that don’t support mission-critical applications (think TV, digital display, or vending machine in a common area) can still cause plenty of inconvenience for both users and IT staff when disconnected. And let’s face it—any unused outlet can be tempting for cyber criminals looking to access a network, and they will always be a target for gum or spitballs in a school environment.

Click HERE to learn more about how Siemon’s LockIT can help you easily and cost-effectively protect your network connections.

When Siemon developed its new Value Vertical Cable Manager (VVCM) system, most of its features and capabilities were based on input from a wide range of company types and job roles among channel partners, end-user customers, consultants and system integrators. For the contractors and integrators tasked with installing racks and cable management on the jobsite, the focus was all about user-friendly features to enable faster, more efficient Day 1 deployments, and that input resulted in key VVCM innovations:

• Small, light modular design and packaging that is easier to store, transport, and move around the jobsite versus heavy, single-piece traditional 7-foot vertical managers.
• Intuitive, tool-less assembly process that takes less than 5 minutes start-to-finish (check out a time-lapse assembly video here.)
• Dual-hinged doors with spring-loaded “finger-operated” latches vs. snap on covers.

While those Day 1 VVCM features were also valued by end-users and consultants, the overall user/consultant demographic placed a higher premium and interest on Day 2 benefits. That is a logical outcome, as once the contractor has wrapped up the initial install, it is typically the end-users that are left to manage the ongoing moves, adds and changes to that beautifully installed cabling infrastructure. Day 2 is all about accessibility, scalability, and flexibility.

In terms of accessibility, the biggest challenge with most lower-cost vertical managers is the covers. These tend to be snap-on style plates that, while they can be removed to provide more or less unhindered access to the cable management space, are difficult to reattach properly. In fact, it isn’t uncommon to see snap-on covers left aside and not re-attached at all, which not only exposes the cabling pathways to potential disruption, it detracts from the space’s aesthetics.

Based on customer feedback, the VVCM was designed with proper doors. These doors are dual hinged so that they can be opened in either direction, providing excellent access regardless of the cable routing configuration or surrounding space challenges without the consistent need to remove the doors completely. However, if users prefer to remove the doors, the spring-release clips at each corner and easy-to-identify attachment points make re-attachment a quick and simple process.

Scalability should also be considered – and when thinking about cable managers, scalability equals room to grow. Like most vertical cable managers, the VVCM is available in a range of widths – the wider the manager, the more management space it provides. Choosing the best manager size for the application requires some pre-Day 1 foresight based on per rack equipment and patching field density, horizontal cabling density, and future expansions. As a general rule of thumb, it is far safer to go bigger than initial estimates if at all possible.

Once the system is installed, that extra management space will also make basic day-to-day maintenance easier by virtue of providing more room to work. Ongoing MAC work can be further simplified with well though-out, high-capacity cable and cord routing support, and the VVCMs cable management “fingers” were expressly designed to provide that support. Each finger opening aligns with the rack’s mounting spaces and can accommodate up to 48 Category 6A cables, providing a direct and orderly path from the rack-mounted equipment or patching ports to the vertical cable management space.

As cabling channels are re-routed, new channels are added, and additional equipment such as PDUs need to be deployed Day 2, the flexibility to reconfigure the cable management space becomes a key consideration. While most value-level vertical managers provide limited, static space for cabling support accessories such as cable ties, the VVCM’s rear divider plates offer an almost countless number of potential configurations. The plates feature integrated attachment points for cable tie-downs, ¼ turn cable management accessories, and fiber spools, as well as standard PDU mounting points, allowing the managers to support power cable management in addition to network cabling. The divider plates are custom mountable, allowing users to put management support where it is needed, and are reversible to provide more pathway space to either the front or back of the rack as needed.

These Day 2 considerations should be top of mind in a user’s cable management selection regardless of which solutions are on the short list, but a complete analysis must include costs. In the past, the market primarily offered lower-cost bare-bones options or feature rich premium solutions, with a significant cost delta between basic and premium options and little or no middle-ground options. The VVCM was specifically developed to fill that market gap. Combined with Siemon’s 2-Post Value Rack and RouteIT Horizontal Cable Managers, the VVCM completes an integrated rack and cable management solution that is both cost-competitive with basic options, yet offering enhanced features typically limited to more expensive premium systems.

To learn more about the new Value Vertical Cable Manager, visit Siemon’s eCatalog

Keystone copper connectivity is essentially based on a universal RJ-45 form factor that enables the connectivity to be interchangeable across brands-any keystone outlet will fit into any keystone opening. But there are some considerations.

Same Size Does Not Mean Same Performance

Keystone outlets feature a snap-in mounting with a rectangular face of 14.5 mm (0.57 in.) wide by 16 mm (0.63 in.) high. Since keystone connectivity is interchangeable, it is often chosen for versatility and the ability to work with a wide range of keystone work area products such as faceplates, boxes, and other mounting solutions. Keystone outlets can be especially beneficial if you are dealing with unique or customized mounting solutions from third-party vendors. Keystone connectivity can also facilitate upgrades and vendor replacements-existing keystone mounting solutions allow for easily replacing outlets with another vendor’s keystone outlets.

However, just because keystone outlets are the same size, that does not necessarily mean they are all equal. While their form factor may be identical, you still need to consider the performance. At a basic level, they need to be verified to meet industry standards like ANSI/TIA-568 and ISO/IEC 11801, which means they also need to be from a reputable manufacturer. Buying keystone connectors from low-cost, unknown suppliers increases the risk of ending up with non-standards compliance, inferior performance, or even counterfeit components.

There are additional performance considerations as well. For example, are the outlets UL 2043 compliant for use in air handling spaces? How easy and repeatable is the termination process? How well do they achieve outlet-to-outlet pair separation to suppress alien crosstalk when mounted side-by-side in 10 Gb/s applications? One key performance factor to consider is power over Ethernet (PoE) support and the ability to prevent plug and jack contact erosion at the final mated location that can occur due to arcing when the plug is unmated under PoE load conditions. Keystone outlets that include a straight jack contact shape can result in damaged plug contacts at the final mated position and ultimately an unreliable connection. In contrast, Siemon Z-MAX® and MAX® keystone outlets feature our PowerGUARD® technology with a patented curved jack contact shape that ensures any arcing damage to the plug and jack contacts remain away from the final mated position. Learn more about our PowerGUARD technology.

Additional Considerations

While the universal interchangeability of keystone connectivity has its benefits-as long as you’re selecting standards-based connectivity from a reputable manufacturer-they are considered a more commoditized option that might not give you all the features and benefits you can get with a manufacturer-specific modular connectivity solution.

Siemon Z-MAX and MAX hybrid outlets come with a door option that is great for keeping dust out of unused outlets. They can also be mounted flat or angled and include spaces for icons to easily distinguish between voice and data. Keystone outlets are not available with these added features.

Sometimes, these features can have an impact on installation. For example, when planning for work area mounting, it is important to ensure adequate clearance for depth requirements to maintain the cable bend radius. Since keystone outlets cannot be mounted in an angled orientation, they end up requiring more depth and a larger bend radius. For example, Siemon’s keystone Z-MAX outlets have a mounting depth of 30mm (1.2 in.) with a required bend radius of 4 times the cable diameter. However, an angle-mounted hybrid Z-MAX outlet has a mounting depth of just 23 mm (0.9 in.) and allows for a smaller bend radius of about 2 times the cable diameter.

We’ve Got You Covered!

Regardless of whether you prefer keystone or modular connectivity, Siemon has you covered. Our high-performance Z-MAX and MAX outlets available in category 5e UTP, category 6 UTP and category 6A UTP and shielded have the option of a keystone form factor. We offer high-quality keystone single-gang plastic and stainless-steel faceplates. They come in 1-, 2- and 4-port versions and keystone UTP patch panels in 24- and 48-port flat and angled versions. UL listed for use in air-handling spaces to support connections to ceiling-mounted devices such as Wi-Fi access points, surveillance cameras and LED lights, Siemon’s keystone surface mount boxes are available in 1-, 2-, 4- or 6-port versions.

You can find ordering information for our keystone connectivity by visiting Siemon’s eCatalog at ecatalog.siemon.com. Siemon’s new keystone faceplates, patch panels and surface mount boxes support Siemon keystone Z-MAX® and MAX® UTP outlets available in category 5e, category 6 and category 6A performance.

When it comes to protecting the network, we hear a lot about firewalls, virus protection, encryption and other cybersecurity measures. While preventing digital attacks is critical in today’s digital world, data center and network managers also need to ensure that the network is physically secure.

With physical access to the network, anyone can accidentally or intentionally disconnect mission-critical networking equipment or connected devices. Sophisticated criminals could also gain access to unprotected spaces and connections for the purposes of carrying out cyberattacks or installing malware, viruses or ransomware. Let’s look at some of the various ways to physically protect the network.

Secure the Network Spaces

Switches, servers and other network equipment should be kept secure within data centers and telecommunications rooms with locked entrances. While standard door locks can help, they aren’t much good if everyone has a key. Implementing video surveillance and access control systems is a much better method of physically securing these spaces. Surveillance cameras have become far more sophisticated with built-in technologies like facial and voice recognition, motion detection, 360-degree and long-range visibility, and even behavioral analytics. Networked IP-based surveillance systems can even integrate with access control systems that limit access to authorized personnel via proximity cards, PIN or biometrics.

In larger data center spaces where only specific groups of individuals should have access to certain equipment or connections, it may be wise to bring physical security down to the cabinet level. This is especially ideal for colocation data centers that need to provide customer access to specific cabinets. Cabinet-level security can also help save space in colocations by eliminating the need to place cabinets within secure cages.

Secure Critical Networking Ports

While physically securing network spaces can go a long way in preventing unauthorized access, sometimes within these spaces themselves there is a need to secure specific network ports to prevent accidental or intentional disconnects or the connection of unauthorized devices.

While the primary benefit of solutions like automated infrastructure management (AIM) and data center infrastructure management (DCIM) systems is to manage and control the network to ensure performance and uptime, these systems can also monitor physical network activity. For example, Siemon’s MapIT G2 AIM solution features smart patch panels and patch cords with sensor technology that can detect and alert in real time any disconnect of individual copper and fiber ports or any unauthorized devices attempting to connect to the network.

For those seeking a lower-cost option for securing specific network ports, tamper-proof patch cords and outlet locks are simple and easy to use. Siemon’s LockIT™ system includes patch cords that can be freely inserted into patch panel outlets but require the LockIT Cord Key for removal. The system also includes secure RJ45 outlet and LC fiber adapter locks for preventing access to unused ports. Brightly colored in yellow to easily identify secured ports, the locks fit into any standards-compliant RJ45 outlet or LC duplex fiber port and require a key for removal.

Secure the Edge Connections

When physically securing the network, it’s important to not forget about the outlets and devices at the edge of the network-many of which are accessible to the general public. Think security cameras, wireless access points, digital displays, point-of-sale, kiosks, vending machines and even networked lighting fixtures. Not only is it often critical for these devices to stay connected to the network, but the outlets to which they connect can be a gateway for sophisticated hackers to access the entire network.

For devices like security cameras, lighting fixtures, video displays and wireless access points that are not expected to be moved or rearranged after deployment, sometimes it may make sense to eliminate outlets altogether. Using a standards-based Modular Plug Terminated Link (MPTL) configuration where the end of network cable is outfitted with a modular plug and connected directly into a device eliminates the use of an outlet and connecting the device with visible patch cords that can be easily disconnected. After all, actually seeing the patch cord and the outlet may increase the temptation for someone to tamper with the connection, especially in schools and other public spaces. Siemon’s Z-PLUG™ Field Terminated Plug is ideal for facilitating MPTL connections. It can be easily terminated onsite to any twisted-pair network cable from 22 to 26 AWG for quick direct connections to devices. Its shorter plug design with rounded edges and ability to eliminate the boot and latch protector also makes it ideal for connecting to devices with limited space.

Siemon’s LockIT system can also be deployed at the network edge where devices are connected to outlets via patch cords. LockIT secure RJ45 outlet and LC fiber adapter locks can prevent access to unused outlets in public spaces, while LockIT cords can help prevent disconnect of devices like security cameras, point-of-sale terminals, self-service kiosks, digital displays and even medical equipment in publicly-accessible spaces like schools, retail stores, transportation hubs, hospitality venues and hospitals.

To learn more about Siemon’s security solutions, download our security application and product guide.

When it comes to racks and cable management, it seems like there’s always been a de facto line between basic, more or less bare-bones options aimed at typical, day-to-day contractor needs and feature rich premium solutions for higher-end “project work”. And, as any cabling pro can attest, crossing the line into premium solutions usually means a hefty price increase. That may not have been so much of an issue in the good old days, when those everyday jobs rarely required anything more than bare-bones racks and cable managers; but as technology advances, those routine small and medium installs start to feel far less routine.

With technologies like IP-based A/V, surveillance, access control, WiFi, and other intelligent building systems not only communicating through the IT cabling infrastructure, but being powered by it through PoE, the density and complexity of the network can quickly outgrow the capabilities of contractor-priced, basic rack and cable management options. Toss in larger-diameter category 6A cables, and installers are often forced to either live with the limitations of the basic solutions and figure out a way to shoehorn 10lbs of, umm . . . “network infrastructure” into a 5lb bag, or upgrade to more expensive premium options. To make a long story short (or at least shorter), the market was missing a complete rack and cable management solution that could meet “value-level” price points for day-to-day work, and offer the enhanced features needed to support the increasing demands of those everyday jobs . . .

(Now, if I was going for the full-on marketing hard-sell here, I could follow that last sentence up with something like “. . . UNTIL NOW” – but since you’re probably as sick of hearing that kind of thing as I am, I’ll just get to the point.).

Siemon just launched a new Value Vertical Cable Manager (VVCM) system. I’ll cover its features in a second, but I want to start with what this launch means from a system standpoint. Combined with Siemon’s 2-Post Value Rack and RouteIT Horizontal Cable Managers, the VVCM completes a comprehensive, unified rack and cable management family that is both cost-competitive vs. the common, stripped-down options, and packed with features typically found only on premium systems. To put it another way, this value-priced system is designed to simplify the deployment and long-term management of the “new everyday” install: efficiently handling high-density patching and backbone cable routing with capacity for future scalability, providing equipment mounting flexibility for a wide range of applications, supporting space-saving power distribution and cord management options – everything you expect from the premium-level systems, but without the premium price tag.

Back to the new Value Vertical Cable Manager. Rather than make you read about all of its cool contractor-focused features and innovations, we’ve created a brief video for you. (Frankly, the video only takes a couple of minutes, and covers more detail than I could manage in 4 or 5 more pages worth of writing). Check it out on the Siemon eCatalog.

Just in case you can’t spare a second to watch the video now, I’ll give you a Value Vertical Cable Manager teaser:

• It ships small and light, so it is easier handle in the warehouse, on the truck, and at the jobsite. (No more lugging heavy boxes around or cramming huge 7-ft boxes in elevators.
• It only takes 5 minutes to install. Other than bolting it to the rack, assembly is tool-less
• It has REAL DOORS. No more dealing with those snap-on covers. You know: the ones you can never seem to get back in place without a 5-minute wrestling match and a few mangled fingers (both your fingers and the cable manager fingers). The VVCM has real, spring-loaded latches that you can operate with one finger.
• There’s tons more to talk about on the eCatalog